6 Health Issues That Can Impact Your Oral Health

When you visit your dentist for a checkup, they’re looking for more than just cavities or plaque. Your mouth can show signs of what’s going on in the rest of your body. In fact, problems with your teeth and gums can be linked to serious health issues in other areas like your heart, lungs, or immune system.

Let’s take a closer look at six medical conditions that can impact your oral health and why it’s important to stay on top of your dental care.

1. High Blood Pressure

People with high blood pressure are more likely to develop gum problems like inflammation and bleeding. On top of that, certain blood pressure medications can dry out your mouth. When your mouth doesn’t have enough saliva, it can lead to tooth decay.

There are also medications, like ACE inhibitors, that may help lower blood pressure while having a more positive effect on your gum health. If you have high blood pressure, talk to both your doctor and your dentist. They can help you find a treatment plan that supports your overall and oral health.

2. Diabetes

Diabetes can lead to a severe form of gum disease called periodontitis. This condition can cause your gums to pull away from the teeth, eventually making your teeth loose and resulting in tooth loss. If you suffer from diabetes, try keeping your glucose levels under control. If you have both diabetes and periodontitis, it’s best to consult a periodontal specialist to determine if you’re a good candidate for gum surgery. Inform your diabetes doctor about your periodontitis, too. In that way, they will help you keep it at bay with proper dental hygiene and a balanced diet.

3. Heart Disease

There’s growing evidence that people with gum disease may be more likely to develop heart problems. While we don’t fully understand the connection yet, it’s possible that the bacteria from infected gums can enter your bloodstream and affect your heart.

If you’ve been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease or are at risk, paying attention to your oral hygiene is especially important. Brushing and flossing every day, along with routine dental visits, can help lower your chances of heart-related issues linked to poor oral health.

4. Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease and gum disease often go hand in hand. Kidney problems can lead to other health issues, including high blood pressure and changes in bone structure, which can affect your gums. At the same time, untreated gum disease can cause inflammation throughout your body, which may worsen kidney function.

Even a small mouth infection can be dangerous for someone with kidney disease. If you’re managing kidney issues, staying on top of your dental care and keeping your mouth as healthy as possible is a must.

5. Lung Conditions

Gum disease can also be linked to lung problems like chronic bronchitis, COPD, and pneumonia. The bacteria in your mouth can travel into your lungs when you breathe in, especially if your gums are infected.

If you have ongoing respiratory problems, let your dentist know. Regular cleanings can help reduce the amount of harmful bacteria in your mouth and lower your risk of lung infections. If you smoke, quitting can also make a big difference in both your gum and lung health.

6. Obesity

People who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop gum disease. Experts believe this may be due to inflammation. Fat cells release chemicals that can make inflammation worse throughout your body, including in your gums.

Losing weight through healthy eating and regular exercise can help reduce inflammation and lower your risk of gum problems. It’s also a good idea to keep up with dental cleanings and ask your dentist for tips on keeping your gums healthy.